Blacky' Blower

BYW (Build Your Weapon Audio) is a Canadian builder creating specialized bass effects. The Blacky' Blower is associated with Blacky from metal band Voivod, designed to help achieve his distinctive bass tone.

The circuit uses 5 silicon JFET transistors with an op-amp across 3 stages, blending harmonics in ways typical transistor pedals cannot. Because transistor pedals usually have only one sound, BYW built this to allow diverse variations—you need to fine-tune it to get your desired tone. A built-in cab simulator cuts treble and reshapes harmonics for plug-and-play direct recording.

The core design centers on multiple low pass and high pass filters. A two-knob opto compressor with dual op-amp adds sustain and stabilizes dynamics while contributing to the distortion character. It can also function as a booster with EQ specifically optimized for bass.

Handmade in Canada for bass players seeking recording-ready distortion with extensive tone-shaping.